Underground Fault Detection
2024 – CitiPower
Overview
CitiPower appointed Tradetech Services Australia (TSA) to confirm the exact location of an underground distribution network fault, which regularly resulted in customer outages in the area.
The primary works undertaken were identification of the underground distribution network fault by slowly moving along the easement and visually confirming the condition, and likely issues related to the frequent outages. This included CCTV inspection of HV conduits for asset condition assessment and problem verification. A new HV power cable was subsequently installed.
Scope of Works
- HV electrical distribution network fault location identification
- Replacement of ceramic pipes with HDPE conduit
- New HV power cable installation, including cable hauling.
- Location identification, CCTV inspections for asset condition assessment of HV conduit.
- Permits, approvals, stakeholder management
- Traffic management – night works and 24/7 works to identify and rectify the fault.
Challenge
The underground distribution asset was significantly aged with the HV conduits being ceramic and brittle beyond repair. We ascertained that a new conduit installation was required and proceeded to obtain approval from CitiPower to install. The location was a busy inner city Melbourne roadway with major apartment complexes, commercial business, commuters and shoppers heading to the nearby Victoria Gardens.
Outcomes
The project complexities required us to meticulously assess the distribution cable integrity along the1km easement whilst also carefully ensuring we did not cause any damage to other utility assets. Regular co-ordination with CitiPower, VicRoads, Yarra Trams, APA Group, and Greater Western Water to enable a cohesive assessment, co-ordination and rapid decision making. Identification and rectification works were undertaken 24/7 to ensure timely completion within the planned outage period and minimal customer disruption.
The primary works undertaken were identification of the underground distribution network fault by slowly moving along the easement.
